West Nile virus (WNV) has become an increasing issue in the transfusion setting since 2002, when it was firstly shown in the USA that it can be transmitted through blood transfusion. Since then, several precautionary measures have been introduced in Europe in order to reduce the possible risk of transmission via transfusion/solid organ transplantation.
In addition, the epidemiological surveillance has been tightened and the network for communication of human WNV cases strengthened. This review will focus on WNV circulation and the safety of blood in Europe.
Transfus Med Hemother. 2016 May;43(3):158-67. doi: 10.1159/000446219. Epub 2016 May 10.
West Nile Virus in Europe and Safety of Blood Transfusion.
Pisani G1, Cristiano K1, Pupella S2, Liumbruno GM2.